Walter the Steer:
The Heart of The Patch
Every farm has a story, and at the Smith Family Farm, that story begins with Walter.
Not long ago, the Smiths decided they wanted to share their love of the land with families near and far. The farm had always been a place where hard work met simple pleasures — open fields, grazing animals, and plenty of space for laughter and adventure. But something was missing. That’s when they thought of Kathy’s Grandpa Walter.
Grandpa Walter was the kind of man who believed every day on the farm was an opportunity to get the job done and take pride in the work. Whether it was tending the crops, teaching the kids to fish in the pond, or watching the sunset with a bowl of homemade ice cream, he taught his grandkids that the simple things in life are often the sweetest. Dusty and Kathy grew up with these values and knew they wanted to pass them along to their own kids and share them with others. So, when the time came to create The Patch, they knew it needed a heart — a storyteller, a guide, a friendly face.
And so, Walter the Steer was born.
Walter isn’t your ordinary steer. He’s got a twinkle in his eye and a knack for fun. Some say he knows all the best shortcuts through the corn maze. Others swear he can spot the perfect pumpkin from across the pasture. But everyone agrees on one thing — The Patch wouldn’t be the same without him.
As the seasons change, so does The Patch — and Walter is there for all of it. In the fall, he loves to watch families connect with each other as they enjoy hayrides and savor apple cider donuts. When winter arrives, Walter lights up with excitement (quite literally) as The Patch glows with twinkling Christmas lights, transforming into a wonderland of festive cheer. Come spring, Walter is on the lookout for colorful Easter eggs tucked away in the grass, ready to cheer on kids as they hunt for hidden treasures. And summer? Well, that’s for sunny days and wide-open spaces, perfect for playing and exploring.
No matter the season, Walter is always there, reminding everyone that The Patch isn’t just about pumpkins or corn. It’s about family, tradition, and making memories that last a lifetime.
So, the next time you visit The Patch, keep an eye out for Walter. You never know where you’ll find him — lounging by the barn, inspecting the corn cribs, or quietly watching over the fields, making sure every visitor feels right at home.
Because at The Patch, Walter isn’t just a steer. He’s a legacy.
